What does Mayes mean and where does it come from?
Mayes is derived from the English surname 'May', which is associated with the month of May, reflecting the bloom of spring and new beginnings. The name might also be connected to various personal names or could be a diminutive of other names. In modern usage, it can be used as a standalone first nam
Cultural significance
Mayes has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #16995 in 2012 — currently #808 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Mayes?
Mayes works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mayes Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Mayes Rose
Floral · soft ending
Mayes Mae
Sweet · timeless
Mayes Claire
French influence · crisp
Mayes Jane
Literary · strong
Mayes Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Mayes right now?
Holding steady — currently #808 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #808 | 1,392 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #813 | 1,372 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #818 | 1,342 | — |
The story of Mayes
Mayes is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2012. With 119 total births recorded, Mayes remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #818 in 2021 to #808 in 2023. Mayes is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Names that peaked alongside Mayes in 2012:
Mayes by decade
Mayes peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 2000s | 10 | |
| 2010s ★ | 83 | |
| 2020s | 16 | |
💎Mayes has only 119 total recorded births since 2012 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Mayes?
What names sound and feel like Mayes?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mayes also consider these
Common questions about the name Mayes
What does the name Mayes mean?
Mayes means "English" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Mayes?
Mayes is currently ranked #808 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Mayes?
Mayes originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Mayes sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Mayes flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Mayes ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Mayes a common or rare name?
Mayes is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.